Xbox Cloud Gaming, also known as xCloud, is a gaming service offered by Microsoft that allows users to play video games on their devices without the need for a dedicated gaming console or a high-end gaming PC. Instead, the game is run on a remote server and the video and audio are streamed to the user’s device over the internet. This allows users to play a wide variety of games on devices that might not normally be capable of running them, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Xbox Cloud Gaming is available through an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, and it supports both touch and controller-based gameplay.
A gaming service is a type of service that provides access to video games. There are several different types of gaming services, including:
- Gaming consoles: These are dedicated devices that are designed specifically for playing video games. Examples include the Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
- PC gaming: Many people play video games on their personal computers (PCs). Some PC games can be purchased and downloaded directly, while others are available through online gaming platforms such as Steam or GOG.
- Cloud gaming: Cloud gaming services allow users to play video games on their devices without the need for a dedicated gaming console or a high-end gaming PC. The game is run on a remote server and the video and audio are streamed to the user’s device over the internet. Xbox Cloud Gaming is one example of a cloud gaming service.
- Mobile gaming: Many people play video games on their smartphones and tablets. Mobile games can be downloaded from app stores or played through web browsers.
Cloud gaming services can be subscription-based or pay-per-game. Some services offer a limited selection of games for free, with the option to purchase additional games or unlock additional features through in-app purchases or microtransactions. Examples of cloud gaming services include Xbox Cloud Gaming, Google Stadia, and GeForce NOW.
To use a cloud gaming service, users typically need a fast and stable internet connection and a device with a screen and a way to control the game (such as a touchscreen or a game controller). Some cloud gaming services require users to download an app or client software, while others can be accessed directly through a web browser.